Eleventh grader creates device to aid the blind

The creation was one among the several projects showcased in the Inspire award science exhibition jointly organised by School Education Department and Tamil Nadu Science & Technology Centre, Chennai. R Delhi Babu, a Class 11 student from Christian Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Ekkaduthangal, has developed the gadget at a cost of about Rs 1,500, which according to him works on the principle of reflection of sound signals (echo). 

“The gadget emits sound signals from the sensor, which get reflected when they hit an obstacle and in turn, the receiver in the device picks up the signal to create a sound from the buzzer. This will help the person move away from the obstacle,” the young innovator explained. Pointing out that he had fixed an ultrasonic sensor in the device to emit signals, which could cover a range of about 2 cm to 3 metres, Delhi Babu said that by replacing the ultrasonic sensor with proximity sensor the range of the signal could be increased. 

“A person can also wear this device like a necklace and if he or she is also hearing impaired we can fix a vibrating motor in the stick to inform them about the obstacle,” the student added.